4-H program packed with opportunities -- register soon

The Moffat County 4-H program is about to get started and this is your opportunity as a parent or child to register yourself or register your child. To get the maximum opportunity, register before the end of January as most of the 4-H projects will be starting in February or March. We do take registrations year round, but obviously it is to your advantage to register today.

In 2004 there are more great learning experiences and more opportunity for young people to build self-esteem and build lasting positive memories. There are great leaders, projects, trips and awards to be received.

To make the 4-H experience a full and positive one, it is recommended to sign up for a community club to start. From there, select one or two projects that really interest you. There are several new leaders and projects this year as 4-H continues to expand its project base. Projects range from outdoor cooking to shooting sports to ceramics to clothing to livestock For a complete list of projects and the time they met and who the leader is stop by the Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Office at 539 Barclay in Craig.

As we start the year, there are several exciting trips planned for young people in the 4-H program. If your child is signed up today, he or she may qualify to travel if they meet the right specifications, such as age and project interest. Right away in January and February there are two leadership trips for 4-H members: one to the State Capitol and another to Ponderosa, Colo. Both are outstanding trips with several fun activities planned for 4-H members.

One of the best events in the state of Colorado organized for 4-H members happens in our own backyard. The Northwest 4-H District Retreat that takes place at the Holiday Inn in Craig has become one of the best-sponsored programs in Colorado. Two keynote speakers will motivate you to change the world. Several workshops ranging from leadership to hobbies to crafts will have you coming back for more. Stop by the Extension Office and check out this great opportunity.

To finish the year up, there is a special new event to recognize 4-H members that have excelled in general project areas and also those projects who go on to compete at the Colorado State Fair. There are more awards, scholarships and opportunities for young people than ever before.

4-H is one of the oldest and most recognized youth programs in the country. It has a reputation of developing leadership, knowledge and life skills in our young people. This is the opportunity that you have been looking for. Take advantage of this opportunity and join today. Stop by the Colorado State University Cooperative Extension and sign up today.

Feeder Calf Show

Midwinter Invitational Calf Show & weigh-in will be February 8, 2004 at the indoor arena Moffat County Fairgrounds. All calves in competition must be in place on the Moffat County Fairgrounds by 10:30 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 8. Weigh in will begin at 8:30 a.m. If you are not going to compete in the show you must still weigh in your market steer to be eligible for Rate of Gain Contest. The scales will close at 2 p.m., Sunday, Feb 8. There is an attachment to outline all contest rules.

Leadership

Development Conference

All senior 4-H members are invited to attend the 2004 Leadership Development Conf-erence, Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2004. This conference will include fun workshops, intense leadership training and team building activities as well as the mid-winter meeting for the State 4-H Senate and Leaders Council. If interested, please call or stop by the Extension for an application.

Youth Fest

Please mark your calendar for Feb. 20-22 for Youth Fest, a leadership camp for 4-H members between the ages of 9 and 13, provided by the State 4-H Senate Officer team. It will be held at the Ponderosa Camp Monument again this year. If interested, call the Extension Office for an application.